# Zombie

A computer infected with malware that lets an attacker control it remotely, usually as part of a botnet.

**Zombie[↗](/zombie)** is a computer that has been infected with malware[↗](/malware) giving an attacker remote control over it, typically without the owner's knowledge. A zombie machine usually continues to function normally for its owner while secretly carrying out an attacker's commands in the background.

Large networks of zombie computers, known as botnets, are used to send spam[↗](/spam), launch distributed denial-of-service attacks, or mine cryptocurrency at the victim's expense. Keeping software updated and running reputable security tools helps prevent a device from being recruited into one.